MIAMI BEACH, Fla. – The city of Miami Beach is kicking off what it’s calling Operation Summer Relief.
It’s an effort to end homelessness in the city, providing shelter placement and mental health assistance to people living on the streets.
“The number one issue that our residents want us to deal with and address is homelessness,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “We’re going to have all hands on deck, we’re going to redouble our efforts for the month of August to offer a lifeline to people to be humane.”
Protesters outside of Monday’s news conference said they believe there is a better way.
The effort was preceded by a city-passed measure giving officers discretion to arrest homeless people who decline offers of help.
The move also follows the tune of the bill signed into law by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis this year outlawing sleeping in public places like streets, sidewalks and parks.
“Public places are for the public, period,” said Meiner.